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- calendar_today October 27, 2026
Large-Scale Data Center Proposed for Bennett Ranch Industrial Campus
A proposal by Weitz & Co. to construct a 3.4 million-square-foot data center at the Bennett Ranch Industrial Campus has sparked debate among Mountain Home residents. The plan would see four three-story buildings dedicated to data processing, accompanied by power generation, backup systems, and cooling infrastructure.
Zoning Regulations Block Immediate Development
Despite the detailed outline, the project is not moving forward yet. Under current Mountain Home city code, data centers are neither a permitted nor a conditional use in any zone, effectively prohibiting this type of development. No formal land use application, conditional use permit, or building permit has been submitted to city officials, according to Mayor Rich Sykes.
Concerns from the Mountain Home Community
Local residents have voiced their unease regarding the scale and possible impact of the proposed data center. Christine May, a Mountain Home neighbor, expressed some reassurance that the project remains only a proposal. Others, like Lizabeth Braun and Evan Peterson, raised concerns about water consumption, appropriateness of location, and the potential for approval despite current regulations. Braun commented, "All the money in the world will not buy you a glass of water if there isn't any, and we have to think about that." Peterson questioned whether a project of this size is suitable for Mountain Home.
Water Consumption and Infrastructure Questions
The proposed data center would use a closed-loop cooling system, which, according to the developer's documents, is designed for minimal water consumption. There is mention of a water connection agreement dating back to 2005, potentially allowing for hookup to the city water supply. However, the specifics of the agreement and its allowances remain unclear, adding to resident and city council concerns.
City Response and Future Prospects
Prompted by growing interest in data centers and their possible impact, Councilman Scott Harjo had previously raised the subject with the Planning and Zoning Commission, especially addressing water use. Since early July, the city of Mountain Home has been working to define and categorize data centers in its zoning code. As it stands, the proposal cannot proceed without new or updated zoning allowances.
Next Steps and Ongoing Discussion
While Weitz & Co. has not submitted a formal application, the city states that the developer may pursue approval in the future, contingent on changes to zoning regulations. Some community members, like Braun, remain skeptical, suggesting the project could be approved despite current prohibitions. Peterson voiced concern for the community's ability to influence such decisions.
For now, the data center proposal at Bennett Ranch Industrial Campus remains on hold, bound by Mountain Home's zoning code and ongoing community and municipal review.
Source: kivitv.com.
